In the post made on social media, Mr Connolly called the burning of "photographs of republican leadership" a "disgrace".

He criticised the youths behind the bonfire and the "attack on our community".

Mr Connolly added: "In my opinion, bring back the IRA".

'Frustration and anger'

DUP MLA Gary Middleton told BBC Radio Foyle that the comments were "disgraceful".

"There are times when we can be frustrated but what we don't do is call for terrorist organisations to be brought back.

"He was in a position of responsibility and I think the Policing Board urgently need to investigate it," he said.

Image copyrightPress EyeImage caption
Part of the Lecky Road in Derry was blocked, causing disruption to traffic

Mr Connolly, a community worker, has since posted an apology on Facebook and said his remarks were made in the "heat of the moment".

"I would now like to comment on the post that I made out of frustration and anger after witnessing the wanton destruction of property and anti-social behaviour caused by a bonfire which was against the wishes of the local community, the community I grew up in," said Mr Connolly.

"I realised that this post was inappropriate and I took it down. The IRA has gone and is not coming back and I fully support the Sinn Féin peace and political strategy.

"Anyone who knows me and works with me is well aware that this has been, and will continue to be, my consistent position.

"Community problems should be resolved through inclusive dialogue," he added.